Calculating Work Done by a Varying Force: Positive or Negative?

Click For Summary
SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the work done by a varying force defined by the equation F=(7Nxm^2)x^-2 for an object with a mass of 2 kg, moving from x=2 to x=3. The work done is determined by integrating the force over the specified distance. The integral of the force function will yield the total work, which can be classified as positive or negative based on the direction of the force relative to the displacement.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Newton's laws of motion
  • Knowledge of calculus, specifically integration
  • Familiarity with the concept of work in physics
  • Basic grasp of force and mass relationships
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the principles of work and energy in physics
  • Learn how to perform definite integrals with variable functions
  • Explore the concept of conservative and non-conservative forces
  • Review examples of calculating work done by varying forces
USEFUL FOR

Students of physics, educators teaching mechanics, and anyone interested in understanding the application of calculus in physical scenarios involving forces and work.

williams31
Messages
38
Reaction score
0
An object of mass 2 kg is repelled from the origin by a force in the +x-direction whose magnitude varies with x according to F=(7Nxm^2)x^-2. How much work is done by this force when the object moves from x=2 to x=3? (Be sure to say whether this work is positive or negative.)


I have no idea how to start this problem off. Anybody want to help me out?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
What is the equation that defines how much work is done, in terms of the force and distance through which the force acts? Work is the integral of what quantities?
 
You really should look through the link I gave you on the other thread.
 

Similar threads

How can "work" done by a force be negative?
  • · Replies 19 ·
Replies
19
Views
2K
Work done in elevator problem — is it positive or negative?
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
3K
Work done by a force down a ramp
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
2K
Why does the logic of negative acceleration not always indicate negative work?
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K
What mistake am I making when calculating work done by a force?
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
Spring constant formlula for Force and Work Done
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
2K
Why Is Work Positive When Done Against the Electric Field?
  • · Replies 22 ·
Replies
22
Views
4K
About work done through exercise (push ups)
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
4K
Integral for work done leading to potential energy sign confusion
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
2K
How do I find the work done for a 100 N downward force?
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K